cattle moving through cattle yard on outback farm. Cattle yard with Steel Supplies Charters Towers equipment

Here are Our Top 5 Ways to Stay Safe Around Cattle

It’s no surprise that when your ‘employees’ weigh around a tonne it is very important to maintain a high level of safety so that both of you can stay safe. For cattle farmers, it’s important to keep up-to-date on any changes released by governing bodies like Animal Health Australia. As well as this it can be worthwhile to listen to others in the industry, so here are our top 5 ways to stay safe around cattle;

  1. Reducing shadows, light and noise

When interacting with cattle is important to be aware that their eyes and ears work in a way different to humans. Considering the direction and density of shadows made by natural light can affect the mood and behavior of cattle. For example, when constructing a Cattle Race having the light come from overhead will reduce shadows and help calm the cattle during what is an otherwise stressful experience.

Also, consider the necessity of any hanging chains or rattling of panels as it is likely to spook the cattle. Reducing these aspects can help to keep the calm and minimise any risk to yourself or your crew.

  1. Being aware of their blind spot

When herding cattle it is important to be aware that their eyes create a large blind spot to their rear. Waving or yelling from close behind them is likely to spook them. Cattle’s natural instinct is flight when they are frightened. Keep yourself where they can see you when herding to avoid stressing them.

  1. Knowing where your exits are

When dealing with Bulls and cattle it is important to know how erratic, unpredictable and dangerous they can be. Before getting into a pen you should ways be well aware of your exit points and have them in mind at all time. If a bull shows any signs of aggression you should instantly stop what you’re doing and get out of the pen. It is also important to not run, but instead move calmly and slowly whilst maintaining sight of the bull, this will reduce the chances of them charging.

  1. Washing your hands

A relatively simple yet very important way to stay safe around cattle is to implement and keep good sanitary practices. By thoroughly washing your hands after touching cattle or fencing equipment, you help to prevent the spread of foodborne and zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases can have harmful long-term implications.

  1. Regular safety checks of equipment and facility set up

By frequently examining your cattle yards for any imperfections or problems you reduce the chance of harm to yourself, your staff or your cattle. For example, any loose; cam locks, chains, fastenings, hinges and/or gates and fences could result in significant injury and thus should be taken quite seriously.

 

Not to say these are the only safety precautions you should be taken when dealing with cattle, but we consider them to be a high priority and thus taken seriously. We pride ourselves on producing high-quality steel products and quality information and would love to help you keep safe around cattle. Contact us today at Steel Supplies Charters Towers on 07 4787 4355.

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